April 2006

Fatter shorter skis have revolutionized ski mountaineering — especially in Colorado. One of our biggest problems in this state is snow that may remain relatively unconsolidated through April, fully consolidates in May, but tends to melt off the big east…

Hi Lou, Great spring so far here in the San Juan mountains of Colorado. Our heavy March storms saved us entirely. We have the dirt layer too, which is completely exposed on most aspects except northerly pitches at elevation. A…

Lightweight shovels and probes for backcountry skiing and touring, used for avalanche safety.

Corn report: We had it perfect but had to be there early. Snow surface is dirty, melting fast and not getting a hard surface freeze at night. Probably time to start doing most or our skiing near or above timberline…

Got out yesterday for my yearly traditional climb and descent of Mount Sopris, the big white peak that looms in your face when you drive from Glenwood Springs, Colorado, to Aspen. Chase Harrison was one of today’s insta-partners, this is…

Some of you have been asking for more detail about the new Capitol Peak ski route, Neal Beidleman sent this along (more to come): No dignity on a knife ridge — Chris Davenport “Au Cheval” on Capitol Peak’s razor. The…